Molluscum contagiosum is a common skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV). It is transmitted by skin-to-skin contact, such as during sexual contact in adults. This is why it is often classed as a sexually transmissible infection (STI). Occasionally towels and other objects transmit molluscum to people.
Molluscum contagiosum in children is common and results from close contact with other children who have the infection.
Signs and symptoms
Molluscum contagiosum may cause small lumps (around 1–4mm in diameter) to appear on the skin. The small lumps tend to be found on the thighs, genitals and abdominal area. It usually does not affect other parts of your body.
Molluscum lumps:
- Are painless, but may be slightly itchy
- Often have a tiny central indentation
- Can be numerous and cover thighs, genital and abdominal area
- Will eventually resolve without treatment (are ‘self-limiting’) within a few months.
Diagnosis
Molluscum contagiosum can be mistaken for genital warts or pimples. If you think you have molluscum contagiosum, it is recommended that you see your doctor or other experienced health professional for an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment is available, although molluscum will eventually clear up (resolve) by itself if left untreated. Molluscum lumps are treated with liquid nitrogen. This helps reduce the length of time (duration) that symptoms are experienced:
- Liquid nitrogen treatment is commonly available from your local doctor or sexual health centre.
- A single treatment is usually sufficient. However, it may take a couple of weeks for the lumps to disappear.
- People with suppressed immune systems may take longer for the molluscum to clear.
Sexual partners of a person with molluscum don’t need treatment if they have no symptoms.
Possible complications
Bacterial infections can complicate molluscum contagiosum, causing the lumps to become red and sore. However, these symptoms may also be signs that the lumps are about to disappear naturally. To reduce the risk of bacterial infection, don’t pick or irritate the molluscum or wash them with anything that may irritate your skin. There is no need to apply creams or lotions. Just wash as you would normally.
If symptoms don’t resolve in a few days, consult your doctor as you may need antibiotic treatment.
What happens if molluscum contagiosum is not treated?
Molluscum contagiosum is a mild, ‘self-limiting’ skin infection. Without treatment, it can persist for several months but will eventually resolve. The duration and severity of molluscum infection varies between individuals.
Where to get help
Things to remember
- Molluscum contagiosum is a mild, viral skin infection.
- It is characterised by small, smooth, round, pearly lumps with a central core.
- The infection usually resolves itself, but treatment can shorten the duration of symptoms.
- Your sexual partners don’t need treatment if they have no symptoms.
You might also be interested in:
Impetigo - school sores.
Infections - bacterial and viral.
Sexually transmissible infections - overview.
Tinea.
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